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Leopold DaunAustrian military leader, field marshal.
Date of Birth: 24.09.1705
Country:  Austria |
Content:
- Biography of Leopold Daun
- Reforming the Austrian Army
- The Seven Years' War
- Commander-in-Chief
- Later Years and Legacy
Biography of Leopold Daun
Early Life and Military CareerLeopold Daun was an Austrian military commander and field marshal. Despite his father's wishes for him to become a clergyman, he chose to pursue a military career. He received his baptism of fire in the war against the Spanish in Sicily in 1718. With the help of his family connections, he quickly rose through the ranks and became a colonel in 1734-1735 and a major general in the war against the Turks from 1737-1739.
Reforming the Austrian Army
After the War of the Austrian Succession, Daun led the reorganization of the Austrian army. In 1749, he introduced a unified regulation for the army and in 1751, he established the Military Academy, becoming its first director. His efforts were recognized with the Order of the Golden Fleece in 1753 and his promotion to field marshal in 1754. His marriage to the widow of Count Nostitz gave him strong connections at court and the unwavering support of Empress Maria Theresa.
The Seven Years' War
Daun played a crucial role in the Seven Years' War, leading the Austrian forces. He successfully defeated the Prussians at the Battle of Kolin on June 18, 1757, shattering Frederick the Great's reputation for invincibility. In honor of this victory, Maria Theresa established the Order of Maria Theresa, and Daun became the first of only 20 military commanders to receive the Grand Cross of the order in Austrian history.
Commander-in-Chief
After Prince Charles of Lorraine resigned his command following a devastating defeat at the Battle of Leuthen on December 5, 1757, Daun became the supreme commander of the Austrian forces. Under his leadership, the Austrians achieved several victories, including the Battle of Hochkirch on October 14, 1758, and the capture of General Finck's corps at the Battle of Maxen on November 20, 1759.
Later Years and Legacy
Daun's final battle as a commander was the Battle of Torgau on November 5, 1760, where he was wounded and suffered a defeat. After recovering in Vienna, he was absent from active duty until 1762. He served as the president of the Hofkriegsrat, the Austrian military council, from 1762 until his death in 1766. Throughout his career, Daun was known for his tactical skills, strategic maneuvering, and meticulous planning. However, his cautious and indecisive nature sometimes prevented him from fully capitalizing on favorable opportunities. He was often compared to Fabius, the Roman general known for his caution in battle. Despite his achievements, Daun was overshadowed by his contemporary Frederick the Great, whose innovative military tactics represented a new era of warfare. Daun was also criticized by his Russian allies for his perceived willingness to sacrifice Russian soldiers in the war. In his later years, Daun developed a rivalry with Laudon, another Austrian general who enjoyed greater popularity in the army. As a result, Daun supported the career of Lacy, who eventually succeeded him as president of the Hofkriegsrat.
